'Fortnite' unavailable on Apple devices worldwide

The popular game "Fortnite" was unavailable on Apple's App Store globally on Friday, marking a new chapter in the ongoing conflict between tech giant Apple and publisher Epic Games. Previously, iPhone users in the U.S. were already unable to access the game, but now the restriction extends worldwide.

Epic Games announced on X, "Apple has blocked our Fortnite submission... sadly, Fortnite on iOS will be offline worldwide until Apple unblocks it." Apple has not yet responded to requests for comment.

For years, Epic has contested the commissions imposed by major tech companies for software downloaded through their official app stores, such as Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android. These platforms have traditionally been the primary means for users to install applications.

Despite securing some victories in U.S. courts and under European Union regulations, Epic accused Apple of delaying the review process for app submissions. Last week, Epic revealed it had submitted "Fortnite" for consideration in the U.S. App Store, also noting that the game is unavailable in the European Union. However, EU regulations, specifically the Digital Markets Act, typically allow users to download apps through alternative app stores.

Epic has not yet clarified the reasons for "Fortnite's" unavailability in Europe.

'Junk Fees' Debate

"Fortnite," a major player in the gaming industry, boasted around 500 million users in 2023. However, players have grown accustomed to disruptions as Epic has filed lawsuits against both Apple and Google, criticizing what it calls "junk fees." The commissions Apple charges for App Store purchases can reach up to 30%, which Epic argues harms both consumers and developers.

The conflict began in 2021 when Apple banned "Fortnite" from the App Store, claiming Epic attempted to bypass its payment system. A judge later ruled that Apple's App Store practices were anticompetitive, prohibiting developers from offering alternative payment methods.

Despite this ruling, the dispute continues, as a U.S. federal judge recently stated that Apple has not complied with a three-year-old order requiring it to allow other payment avenues. In response, Epic resubmitted "Fortnite" for App Store inclusion.

CEO Tim Sweeney tweeted on Thursday, "We don't have an update on our Fortnite submission to the App Store. Apple has neither accepted nor rejected it."

Revenue Strategies

Apple has focused on expanding its services business to decrease reliance on iPhone sales, with services now making up over a quarter of its revenue. Reports indicate that Apple is seeking to delay part of the court order that prevents it from charging commissions on transactions outside the App Store.

This ruling has opened doors for other developers, with Swedish music streaming service Spotify already using it to direct users to purchase subscriptions outside the App Store.